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Obesity and common respiratory diseases in children

Melissa Xanthopoulos1, Ignacio E Tapia2

  • 1Sleep Center, Division of Pulmonary Medicine, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.

Paediatric Respiratory Reviews
|November 14, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Obesity increases the risk and severity of respiratory issues like asthma and obstructive sleep apnea in children. Treatment for these conditions is less effective in obese children compared to their lean peers.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Pediatrics
  • Respiratory Medicine

Background:

  • Obesity is a significant global public health concern, disproportionately impacting underserved populations.
  • Obesity is linked to numerous health conditions, including adverse effects on the respiratory system.
  • Common respiratory conditions like asthma and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are more prevalent in obese children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the increased prevalence of respiratory problems in obese children.
  • To examine the impact of obesity on the treatment outcomes of pediatric respiratory conditions.

Main Methods:

  • This study reviews existing literature on obesity and respiratory health in children.
  • Data on prevalence and treatment outcomes were analyzed from comparative studies.

Main Results:

  • Obese children exhibit a higher incidence of asthma and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
  • Treatment efficacy for asthma and OSA is diminished in obese children compared to lean children.

Conclusions:

  • Obesity exacerbates common respiratory conditions in children.
  • Addressing obesity is crucial for improving respiratory health and treatment outcomes in pediatric populations.

Keywords:
AsthmaLung functionObesityObstructive sleep apnoea syndromeUpper airway loading

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